Wasilla pilot dies in Butte-area crash

A 25-year-old Wasilla man died Saturday afternoon in the crash of a single-engine aircraft near Friday Creek and the Knik River, according to an Alaska State Trooper online post Saturday night.

Ray Justen was the pilot and sole occupant of the Cessna 172 that crashed just before before 3 p.m.

Following is the full text of the trooper dispatch:

On 10/29/2016 at approximately 1448 hours, the Alaska State Troopers were advised of an aircraft crash at Friday Creek and the Knik River within the Palmer area. AST was advised Ray Justen (25 yoa of Wasilla) had been the pilot and sole occupant. A LifeMed helicopter responded from Wolf Lake and arrived on scene at approximately 1517 hours. Justen was found to be deceased upon their arrival. An Alaska State Trooper along with an NTSB investigator responded to the scene by means of an AST helicopter. The Cessna 172 aircraft had significant damage. NTSB is investigating the incident. The body was recovered and turned over to the State Medical Examiner's office in Anchorage. Next of kin has been notified.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.